Bonus & Supplemental Pay Tax Calculator
Find out what you actually keep from a bonus check.
Open the Interactive CalculatorHow It's Calculated
Federal Withholding uses the IRS supplemental wage flat rate of 22% (37% on any amount over $1 million in a year), plus standard FICA (7.65%) and your state rate.
Example
Example: a $5,000 bonus withholds $1,100 federal, $382.50 FICA, and $250 state tax (at 5%) — leaving a net bonus of about $3,267.50.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my bonus taxed so much more than my paycheck?
It isn't really taxed at a higher rate — employers just withhold a flat 22% for simplicity. Your actual tax owed is reconciled based on your total annual income when you file.
Can I get some of that withholding back?
Yes — if your marginal tax rate is below 22%, the excess withheld on your bonus is typically refunded when you file your tax return.